What Should I get done 1st?

[skeetjunkie]

overflow for coolant - usually mounted on the right side of the radiator as u face the engine. not a bear to replace, but some tight spaces to wrench here and there. search forum for DIY

[sprocket1200]

all great ideas so far. rocket winter tires up to first place though. they have the potential to save you thousands in repair costs. get 18" OEM rims off craigslist cheap and buy good winter tires. lots of excellent recommendations on here.

[X5Ghost]

Originally Posted by skeetjunkie

overflow for coolant - usually mounted on the right side of the radiator as u face the engine. not a bear to replace, but some tight spaces to wrench here and there. search forum for DIY

That sounds like a doable job.

The only thing I'm afraid to do is the transmission fluid change because of everything I've read on the forum. If I knew that it has been changed regularly (every 30-50k), then I would not hesitate. The risk is higher with higher mileage cars that have not changed it on reg basis due to potential of sediment dislodgment now that is has been accumulating for a longer time. I think JCL thought process is right on in the trans fluid DIY thread!! http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...nge-diy-3.html

[X5Ghost]

Originally Posted by sprocket1200

all great ideas so far. rocket winter tires up to first place though. they have the potential to save you thousands in repair costs. get 18" OEM rims off craigslist cheap and buy good winter tires. lots of excellent recommendations on here.

Pls explain saving thousands on repairs??
Also, Why 18"?? I was thinking 20" with winter tires, is that not a good idea?

[weekend camper]

Originally Posted by X5Ghost

Why 18"?? I was thinking 20" with winter tires, is that not a good idea?

Most opinions here are that the smaller diameter tires (and subsequently higher sidewalls) are better equipped to plow through snow drifts. Might also be about contact patch.

Generally the smaller tires are also cheaper to purchase too.

[sprocket1200]

weekend has it. the tire compound is also softer ensuring that you will have more traction, thereby avoiding accidents that will happen with 'three season' tires...

on our 3.0 we are lucky cause we can use the 17" rims and save nearly $100 per tire over the equivalent 18" sizing.